University of Washington

Alan P Blanchard

Martin A Afromowitz

Ronald L Bardell

Fred K Forster

Nigel Rudra Sharma

Chemical synthesis using solvent microdroplets

The present invention provides a method of biopolymer, esp. oligonucleotide, synthesis. The method consists of coupling a first nucleotide to a second nucleotide in a high surface tension solvent. The invention also provides microdroplets of a soln. comprising a solvent having a b.p. of 150 degree. C. or above, a surface tension of 30 dynes/cm or above, and a viscosity of 0.015 g/(cm)(sec), e.g., propylene carbonate. Such microdroplets are useful for the synthesis of chem. species, particularly biopolymers such as oligonucleotides and peptides, as well as arrays of chem. species. An automated system for oligonucleotide synthesis is described, which comprises delivery of microdroplets by inkjet technol. and computer control of the process. The high surface tension solvent used is selected for compatibility with the inkjet technol.

Solvent for biopolymer synthesis, solvent microdroplets and methods of use

The invention provides methods for assembling arrays of oligonucleotides on a solid support, wherein the arrays can optionally be removed from the support after assembly. The invention also provides a solvent suitable for automated assembly of arrays of oligonucleotides.

Solvent for oligonucleotide synthesis and methods of use

Micropumps fabricated by micromachining techniques and employing fixed or no-moving-parts valves. As one aspect of the invention, a laser-assisted chemical etching technique is employed for providing smooth-walled, curved configuration necessary to obtain the desired flow characteristics of the valves that are used in conjunction with the micropump.

Growing community of inventors

Seattle, WA, United States of America

Alan P Blanchard